Chapter 15

Bella's POV

Chad looked at me intently after what I said. Rejecting a fated mate was not common. It was frowned upon and, in most cases, punishable. The only acceptable reason to reject a mate was if said mate was cheating or was abusive. But even then, outstanding proofs were required to present your case to the council.

"Are you sure, Bella?" Chad asked gently. The more time I spend with Chad, the more I compare him to Jasper. Their differences were abysmal, not to mention that Chad was the king. Goddess, I even punched him when I woke up at the hospital, and he just chuckled. "I am sure," I said, more to myself than him. "I'm allowed to. He cheated on me for years!" My chest rose and fell rapidly. I was still mad and embarrassed about it. How did I never find out? Chad touched my face with one of his rough but gentle hands. I closed my eyes, relishing in the soothing and electrifying sparks emanating from him.

"Of course, you're allowed, and I will back you up if that is you